Design Your Own Google Maps with Illustrator & Snazzy Maps

Design Your Own Google Maps with Illustrator & Snazzy Maps

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Creating a Custom Map with Snazzy Maps 2.1. Accessing Snazzy Maps 2.2. Choosing a Map Style 2.3. Customizing the Map Features
3. Saving the Map Image
4. Editing the Map in Adobe Illustrator 4.1. Importing the Map Image 4.2. Using the Image Trace Option 4.3. Removing Unwanted Labels 4.4. Modifying Shapes and Roads
5. Adding Labels to the Map
6. Implementing the Custom Map in Website and Mobile Designs
7. Conclusion

Creating and Customizing a Custom Map with Snazzy Maps

Creating a map that perfectly suits your website or mobile application design can greatly enhance the user experience and overall aesthetic appeal. In this article, we will explore how to create a custom map using Snazzy Maps, a popular online tool for map customization. We will also discuss how to further edit and optimize the map using Adobe Illustrator, and how to implement it in your website or mobile application design.

1. Introduction

Maps play a crucial role in providing location-based information and helping users navigate through various places. However, using a generic map may not always align with your design requirements. By creating a custom map, you can ensure that it complements your website or mobile application design while providing accurate and relevant information.

2. Creating a Custom Map with Snazzy Maps

2.1. Accessing Snazzy Maps To get started, visit the Snazzy Maps website and navigate to the "Create a Style" tab. Here, you will find various options to customize your map according to your preferences.

2.2. Choosing a Map Style Snazzy Maps offers a wide range of predefined map styles that you can choose from. Select a base style that matches the overall look and feel you want to achieve for your map.

2.3. Customizing the Map Features Once you have chosen a base style, you can further customize the map by adjusting different features. For example, you can change the colors of the landscape, roads, and labels, or remove specific labels that are not necessary for your map.

3. Saving the Map Image

After customizing the map to your liking, you can proceed to save the map image. Snazzy Maps allows you to download up to 8 images a day for free. Simply click on the "Download Image" button and select the desired resolution for your map.

4. Editing the Map in Adobe Illustrator

4.1. Importing the Map Image To edit and optimize the map, you will need to bring the downloaded image to Adobe Illustrator. Open Adobe Illustrator and import the map image using the appropriate file import option.

4.2. Using the Image Trace Option Once the image is imported, utilize the Image Trace option in Adobe Illustrator. Experiment with different settings until you achieve the desired result. Retain important colors and elements while eliminating unwanted artifacts.

4.3. Removing Unwanted Labels In some cases, the map may still contain labels that you don't want. You can use the selection tools in Adobe Illustrator to remove these labels manually. Focus on removing labels that are not relevant to your map's purpose.

4.4. Modifying Shapes and Roads To further customize the map, you can modify shapes and roads to fit your specific needs. Utilize tools like the pencil tool or the knife tool to make changes to the map's elements. For example, you can cut and remove certain roads or adjust shapes to create a more tailored map.

5. Adding Labels to the Map

Once you have edited the map to your satisfaction, you can add custom labels to enhance the user's understanding of the map. Use the text option in Adobe Illustrator to add labels for important landmarks, venues, or specific locations. Customize the font, size, and color of the labels to match your design.

6. Implementing the Custom Map in Website and Mobile Designs

After completing the editing and labeling of the map, you can export it from Adobe Illustrator and integrate it into your website or mobile application design. Use the vector file in formats such as SVG or PNG to ensure high-quality resolution and seamless integration.

7. Conclusion

Creating a custom map allows you to provide a unique and visually appealing experience for your website or mobile application users. By utilizing tools like Snazzy Maps and Adobe Illustrator, you can easily customize and optimize maps according to your specific design requirements. Enhance user engagement and navigation by adding relevant labels and tailor-made elements to your custom map.